Octagon Music Hub is the Hub Lead Organisation for Dorset and Somerset
Funded by Arts Council England, Octagon Music Hub provides strategic leadership for music education across Dorset and Somerset. We invest in partnerships, bring schools and music providers together, and champion inclusive, high-quality music education so that every child and young person can access meaningful musical opportunities.
The Octagon Music Hub is led by Somerset Council, working in partnership with Dorset Council and a wide range of local, regional and national organisations.
Supporting music education in Dorset & Somerset
Schools & Settings (0 – 25)
The Octagon Music Hub works in partnership with schools and education settings across Dorset & Somerset to support children and young people’s musical learning.
Children & Young People
The Octagon Music Hub connects children and young people with lessons, groups, creative projects and progression opportunities across Dorset & Somerset – whether you’re just starting out or ready to take the next step.
Parents & Carers
We provide guidance on music lessons, groups, instrument hire, financial support and local opportunities, use the link below to browse the group music-making opportunities in your area.
Music Education Partners
20 funded partner organisations across Dorset & Somerset – Somerset Music and Dorset Music Service to Actiontrack, Jackdaws, Live Music Now, B Sharp and more.
Impact
Through strategic funding and partnerships, Octagon Music Hub supports music education activity reaching children and young people across Dorset and Somerset.
Statistics for the academic year 2024–25 include:
£1.1 million
Invested in inclusive music education partnerships
91%
Dorset and Somerset schools engaged in Octagon Music Hub activity
8572
Children and young people took part in class instrumental learning
633
Children and young people with SEND loaned instruments, equipment or technology
Up and coming events
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Music & Enrichment: opportunities for schools this year
Read more: Music & Enrichment: opportunities for schools this year -
Barnardo’s National Choir Competition 2027
Read more: Barnardo’s National Choir Competition 2027 -
Enrichment is changing: what does it mean for schools?
Read more: Enrichment is changing: what does it mean for schools?